Developer Steve Mason purchase the property in December of 2016 and in an interview with the Oklahoman, shared his plans to revive the property as a wedding and events center.
Built in 1918 with several additions along the way, the nearly 7,000 square foot building had fallen into disrepair and has been vacant for some time.
Plans drawn by Prime Architects show the entire first floor being remodeled and retaining the stage while adding new restrooms, a kitchen, two bars and raised seating areas on either side of the main floor.
The second level also has a bar and bar area along with private dining and new restrooms.
Outside, the existing facade will be restored with beige stucco and the existing metal marquee will be painted white and backlit.
The existing metal vertical theater sign and scalloped end caps will be repainted min green. Both sides of the sign will feature the “YALE” name prominently in metail and neon and in close approximation to historic photos.
The existing ticket window will be face in mint green Vitrolite with the same material forming a base to the entire facade.
Vitrolite is a type of structural pigmented glass primarily used in the first half of the 20th century. The same material was used in restoration of the Tower Theater in Uptown.
The existing aluminum entry doors will be restored and decorative movie poster style display cases will be added in locations similar to old photos.
The Yale Theater renovation project joins with other large investments in the immediate area including OCCC, Capitol Hill Library, expansion at Mt. Saint Mary's school and the new senior center just to the south of Capital Hill High School.
